Edward Lee Thrasher (June 5, 1892 – March 5, 1971) was a builder, contractor and decorator who served on the Los Angeles, California, City Council between 1931 and 1942.

He had two brothers, Sydney J. and William R. After graduating from Loup City High School in Nebraska,[2][3] he engaged in painting, decorating and contracting until 1917, when he went to Europe with the American Expeditionary Forces, where he was a signal electrician and was gassed in the Battle of Saint-Mihiel, France.

They had three children, Phyllis Elaine (later Wammack), Marilyn Louise (later Hall) and Edward Lee Jr.[2] He was a Mason, Odd Fellow and an active member of the American Legion.

"[5] Thrasher, who was living at 3150 Weldon Avenue, Glassell Park,[7][8] ran for the 14th District seat on the Los Angeles City Council in 1929 but lost in the primary.

[11][12] 1931 Thrasher was one of the six council members who in July 1931 lost a vote to appeal a judge's decision ordering an end to racial restrictions in city-operated swimming pools.

"[10] A Los Angeles Times columnist, writing under the name of "The Watchman," responded: Thrasher is somewhat obstinate, and too much of an individualist to incorporate himself into any political machine, which explains why he is usually at outs with the "corner pocket."

[17] 1940–41 In October 1940, the councilman attempted to control the content of radio broadcasts over station KRKD from the City Hall when he submitted a motion "to make the talks strictly noncontroversial and if a speaker strays from that path, to shut him off the air.